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Dayton Residents Advised on Coping with Valentine's Day Loneliness
Mental health experts offer tips for managing feelings of isolation and inadequacy on the holiday.
Published on Feb. 14, 2026
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With Valentine's Day approaching, mental health professionals in Dayton, Ohio are providing guidance to residents who may struggle with feelings of loneliness and depression during the holiday. Colleen Oakes of the Montgomery County Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health Services (ADAMHS) Board warns that comparing oneself to others' social media posts can lead to a sense of inadequacy, and advises those affected to honor their emotions while also practicing self-care.
Why it matters
Valentine's Day can be a difficult time for those dealing with mental health challenges or a lack of romantic relationships. Experts say it's important to address these feelings head-on rather than ignoring them, in order to prevent a prolonged depressive episode.
The details
Oakes explains that the holiday can trigger anxiety as people wonder if they are doing enough to have a special person in their life. She encourages those struggling to engage in self-love activities and reach out for professional help if they are unable to return to their normal baseline mood. The 988 Suicide and Crisis Hotline is recommended as a resource for anyone needing support.
- Valentine's Day is on February 14th.
The players
Colleen Oakes
The Director of Communications and Strategic Initiatives at the Montgomery County Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health Services (ADAMHS) Board.
What they’re saying
“It certainly leads to a lot of feelings of being inadequate. So why do I not have something that I'm seeing other people having on social media?”
— Colleen Oakes, Director of Communications and Strategic Initiatives, Montgomery County ADAMHS (dayton247now.com)
“My advice is to know that it's normal. Know that it's okay, and you can kind of sit with it. But if you start to feel like you're not able Um to get back to the baseline of what you normally are, that's when we encourage you to reach out for help.”
— Colleen Oakes, Director of Communications and Strategic Initiatives, Montgomery County ADAMHS (dayton247now.com)
What’s next
The 988 Suicide and Crisis Hotline is available 24/7 for anyone needing mental health support.
The takeaway
This story highlights the importance of addressing feelings of loneliness and inadequacy that can arise around holidays like Valentine's Day, rather than ignoring them. Experts advise practicing self-care and reaching out for professional help if needed, in order to prevent a prolonged depressive episode.
